Durable Power of Attorney Forms

A power of attorney form is a legal document that enables an individual, who is referred to as the principal, to appoint an agent, who is called the attorney-in-fact, to act on their behalf. The agent can handle a broad range of tasks, such as making financial, medical, guardianship, or tax-related decisions, depending on the authorities granted to them.

Last updated April 29th, 2024

A power of attorney form is a legal document that enables an individual, who is referred to as the principal, to appoint an agent, who is called the attorney-in-fact, to act on their behalf. The agent can handle a broad range of tasks, such as making financial, medical, guardianship, or tax-related decisions, depending on the authorities granted to them.

A power of attorney form is a legal document that allows a person (called the agent’) to make decisions, both legally and medically, over the person whom created the document (known as the ‘principal’).

Medical Power of Attorney Forms – PDF

Power of Attorney Form Types

  • General – Gives the agent broad powers over the Principal.
  • Limited – Typically for highly specific purposes and/or specific time frames.
  • Durable (most common) – A power of attorney that consists of language that allows the agent to make decisions on behalf of the Principal if in an incapacitated state.
  • Medical – Only allows the agent to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the Principal.
  • Springing – A power of attorney that only comes into effect if a circumstance is triggered.

Where to Get a Power of Attorney Form?

A power of attorney form can be obtained online or by a professional attorney that can customize the language in the form to the Principal’s specific needs.

Obtaining a Power of Attorney Online

  • To be able to choose from templates in multiple formats and customize your power of attorney is more cost-friendly than hiring a professional.
  • Easily fill out the template and download within minutes, especially if one is in an urgent matter.

Obtaining a Power of Attorney Through a Professional Lawyer

  • For situations where the risks are high, inquiring a power of attorney through a professional is recommended.
  • Estate planning usually incorporates an attorney.

What is a Power of Attorney Form?

A power of attorney is a legal document that designates an agent, known as the principal, to handle the affairs of another person. This designation can be for a limited period or the remainder of the principal’s life. The principal has the authority to appoint an agent to handle any legal action under the state law. The most common types of powers granted are financial or medical, which allow someone else to act on behalf of the principal in case they become incapacitated.

What is the Definition of “Power of Attorney”?

Definition by the Uniform Power of Attorney Act:

“A “Power of attorney” is a document that gives an agent the authority to act on behalf of the principal.”

Source: Section 102(7)

Power of Attorney Flow Chart

POA-Flow-Chart

Preview an Example of the Power of Attorney Form PDF Template

Sample:

Power Of Attorney